For a limited time, visitors have a rare opportunity to step inside one of Bangkok’s lesser-known historic temples and see its beautiful traditional murals up close. Bangkok is home to many famous temples, but some of its most interesting cultural treasures are not always open to the public. Wat Bowon Sathan Sutthawat, also known as Wat Phra Kaew Wang Na, is one of them. Located inside the Bunditpatanasilpa Institute in Bangkok’s historic Phra Nakhon district, the temple is closely connected to the former Front Palace, or Wang Na, an important part of Bangkok’s royal history. The temple’s ordination hall was built during the early Rattanakosin period, with construction beginning during the reign of King Rama III and continuing into the reign of King Rama IV. Today, its historic murals offer a closer look at Thai art, religion and storytelling from the period.
The Compass Journal—Bangkok
A Rare Opportunity for History and Art Lovers: Discover Wat Bowon Sathan Sutthawat
31 August 2026
A Rare Chance to See the Historic Murals
The highlight for many visitors is inside the ordination hall.
The walls feature detailed traditional paintings depicting stories including the Phra Buddha Sihing, the 28 previous Buddhas and Hindu deities.
For anyone interested in Thai history, traditional art and historic architecture, this is a special experience.
The hall is not normally open to the public, which makes the current opening particularly unusual. The special public opening is part of the Fine Arts Department’s Rak Nakara: Markha Haeng Rattanakosin programme.
Plan Your Visit
Open: Daily, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm during the special opening period, which ends on 20 September 2026.
Special opening: The temporary public opening is available until 20 September 2026.
Entry: Free.
Guided sessions: Available at selected times during the week. Check the latest schedule before travelling.
Important photography and visitor rules: Do not touch the murals, walls or historic structures. Flash photography is not allowed.
The temple is normally difficult to visit without special permission. If you are planning a future Bangkok trip after the current event, do not assume that the same hours or access will continue.
Good to Know Before You Visit
Wat Bowon Sathan Sutthawat is also called Wat Phra Kaew Wang Na, but it is not the same temple as Wat Phra Kaew at the Grand Palace.
The name refers to its historic role as the royal temple of the Front Palace. The Emerald Buddha is not located here.
Explore More Around Bangkok’s Historic Old Town
A visit to Wat Bowon Sathan Sutthawat can easily be combined with other cultural attractions nearby.
The Bangkok National Museum, Sanam Luang, Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun are all good options for travellers who want to explore more of Bangkok’s history and culture.
You do not need to plan a full day around the temple. Simply add it as a special stop while exploring Bangkok’s historic centre.
A Special Experience to Add to Your Bangkok Trip
Some of Bangkok’s most memorable places are not necessarily the ones you see on every travel itinerary.
For a limited time, Wat Bowon Sathan Sutthawat offers visitors the chance to step inside a historic royal temple, discover its traditional murals and learn more about Bangkok’s past.
If you love history, Thai art and cultural experiences, this is a rare opportunity worth making time for during your Bangkok stay.
After exploring the historic side of the city, return to a comfortable hotel and enjoy everything else Bangkok has to offer.
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